"If a doula were a drug,
it would be unethical not to use it.".
~John H. Kennell, MD
Doulas reduce the labor time, reduce the need for medication, and
reduce the need for Cesarean. Plus, there is the added bonus of a women there to support you.
The benefits of a trained doula are:
Continuous emotional and physical support for the birthing family.
Support for the father, which increases his confidence
in his role.
Knowledge and experience
in the birthing process.
Studies
have also shown:
50% reduction in
cesarean birth
30% reduction in requests
for pain medication
60% fewer requests
for epidural anesthesia
25% decrease in
the length of labor
30% decrease in use
of Pitocin
Reduction of medical cost
Increased breastfeeding success
Greater overall satisfaction
Source: Klaus, Kennell, and Klaus, Mothering the Mother, New York, Addison-Wesley, 1993.
Numerous clinical studies have found that a doula’s presence
at birth
tends to
result in shorter labors with fewer complications
reduces negative feelings about one’s
childbirth experience
reduces the need for pitocin (a labor-inducing
drug), forceps or vacuum extraction and cesareans
reduces the mother’s request
for pain medication and/or epidurals
Research
shows parents who receive support can:
Feel more secure and cared for
Are more successful in adapting to new family dynamics
Have greater success with breastfeeding
Have greater self-confidence
Have less postpartum depression
Partner's have more confidence
in their ability to assist in the birth.
